Working with Lifting Equipment — EN Standards vs. Health & Safety Law
11-11-2025
By Astrid de Groot
When it comes to building or using lifting equipment, there’s a clear line between technical safety and operational safety.
During the design and construction phase, EN standards define how a machine must be built to ensure safety — for example, a single lifting system requires fall protection, while a double system can safely operate without one.
However, once you step onto the construction site, it’s no longer the EN standard that applies — it’s the Health & Safety Law. And that law is clear:
No one may ever be exposed to the risk of a falling load, even if the equipment is technically double-secured.
⚖️ Design Safety vs. Operational Safety
- EN Standard = Safe design
- Health & Safety Law = Safe operation
On the job site, the law is always leading.
So even with a double hoist or a vacuumlifter, no one should ever work under a suspended load.
Especially when lifting glass, the risk increases: glass can crack, slip, or fall from a vacuum lifter.
Even a dual-circuit system won’t prevent glass from breaking.
Always use extra fall protection, such as safety straps around the glass, whenever there’s a risk of falling onto people.
✅ Safety always comes before technology.
🪜 The Safety Ladder
Every step counts — never skip one!
1️⃣ Proper Work Preparation
Assess all risks and take the right precautions. For high-rise or public spaces, always use 3★ Excellent lifting equipment.
2️⃣ Regular Maintenance
Have all glass handling tools and vacuumlifters inspected annually by the supplier.
Check the inspection label before every use.
3️⃣ Pre-use Check
Make sure the battery is charged, vacuum pads are clean, and the inspection sticker is valid.
4️⃣ Mind the Weather
Never lift in rain, frost, or strong winds.
5️⃣ Clear the Lifting Area
No one should ever stand beneath a suspended load.
Secure and supervise the area during all lifting operations.
6️⃣ Mandatory Fall Protection
Work above 1.8 meters requires fall protection — always!
Even when using dual vacuum circuits, this rule still applies.
7️⃣ Stay Within Sight and Hearing Distance
The operator must always maintain visual and auditory contact with the vacuum system.
8️⃣ Use Hand Suction Cups and PPE
Installing glass is precision work.
Most injuries occur when guiding or positioning panels.
Use pump suction cups for safe control, wear PPE, and stay outside the fall zone.
💡 Product Lines
⭐ Smart 1★ — The Job Site of the Future
Work smart, safe, and emission-free with less physical strain.
Our glass handling tools, vacuumlifters, and glass trolleys make lifting and positioning glass, stone, or concrete effortless.
Perfect for ground-level work — fewer workers needed, safer operation, and lower costs.
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⭐⭐ Traditional 2★ — The Power of Timeless Simplicity
Sometimes, the best tool isn’t the most complex.
The Traditional 2★ line combines proven craftsmanship with modern technology — lightweight, easy to use, and built to last.
Ideal for renovations, low-rise construction, or tight access areas using tools like the Gevelridder, mini cranes, or glass trolleys.
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⭐⭐⭐ Excellent 3★ — Innovative, Reliable, and Super Safe
Choose 3★ Excellent for the highest level of safety in lifting.
These systems feature dual vacuum pumps and advanced sensors for maximum stability and reliability — perfect for high-rise or public projects.
A full range of vacuumlifters, glass lifts, and heavy-duty lifting equipment ensures you’ll always find the right solution.
#besttoolforsafeglasshandling #vacuumlifter #glasslift
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Industry 4★ — Safety and Efficiency in Industrial Applications
Our Industry 4★ line is designed for heavy-duty industrial use.
Powered by 380V, 220V, or battery systems, with ergonomic controls and built-in warning systems.
From glass to steel, wood, or stone, every product is made with over 60 years of experience.
A true favorite among professionals is the lightweight overhead crane with integrated vacuum system — allowing one person to handle heavy loads safely and efficiently.
#vacuum #heavydutylift #glasshandlingtools
💬 Final Words from Astrid de Groot
“Safety isn’t an option — it’s a responsibility.
Technology can help us, but it’s our awareness and behavior that truly make the difference.
Let’s work smart, work safe, and make sure everyone goes home healthy at the end of the day.”
✅ Choose Safety. Choose Reliability. Choose Smart Lifting.
Looking for the best tool for safe glass handling?
Discover our full range of vacuumlifters, glass trolleys, and glass lifting equipment designed for maximum safety and efficiency.
👉 [Contact us today] to learn more about our innovative lifting solutions!
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